Trump Calls for “Softer Touch” After Fatal Immigration Raids in Minneapolis

Washington — President Donald Trump said federal immigration authorities should adopt a “softer touch” after two Americans died during immigration enforcement operations in Minneapolis earlier this year.

Trump signals shift in immigration enforcement tone.

In an interview airing Wednesday, Trump said he learned that while immigration enforcement must remain firm, agents may need to adjust their approach. Federal authorities continue to investigate the January shootings of Renée Good and Alex Pretti, which occurred during a large-scale immigration

Trump’s border policy coordinator, Tom Homan, announced Wednesday that the administration will reduce the number of federal immigration and Border Patrol agents in Minneapolis by 700. Homan said local counties have increased cooperation with federal authorities, allowing Immigration and Customs Enforcement to take custody of migrants directly from county jails. Trump confirmed that he personally ordered the reduction in federal agents. He said the decision followed delays by local officials in releasing inmates and emphasized that federal authorities want custody of individuals accused of serious crimes, including violent offenders and drug traffickers.

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Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey have criticized the administration’s immigration crackdown. Last month, it was reported that the Justice Department launched an investigation into both leaders over allegations that they interfered with federal immigration enforcement efforts. Trump said he spoke directly with both officials and expressed frustration over their continued public criticism, despite what he described as productive conversations. On Wednesday, Renée Good’s brothers, Luke and Brent Ganger, testified before Congress for the first time since her death. Luke Ganger said the family continues to grieve her loss and hoped her death would prompt meaningful changes in immigration enforcement practices.

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